KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has expressed shock and disbelief at the untimely passing of Imithente maskandi group co-founder, Dumisile Manana-Mthalane.

Manana-Mthalane passed away in the early hours of Sunday, 27 April 2025, at Vosloorus Hospital in Gauteng.

“We are deeply saddened by the news of the passing of Dumisile Manana-Mthalane. As one of the founding members of Imithente, she was not only a talented musician but a devoted leader who upheld the values of peace and unity championed by the late uMntwana waKwaPhindangene, Dr Mangosuthu Buthelezi. She walked a long and purposeful journey with uMntwana, dedicating herself to fostering social cohesion in KwaZulu-Natal and South Africa at large,” said Premier Ntuli.

The Premier said as a member of Imithente, Manana-Mthalane was a cherished presence at provincial government events. The group’s unwavering patriotism often led them to perform without charge, demonstrating their commitment to the people of this province.

“During my tenure as Mayor of the King Cetshwayo District Municipality, I had the privilege of working closely with Manana-Mthalane and her group. Their music was more than entertainment – it was a powerful force for unity, freedom, and peace.

“The last time I saw Manana-Mthalane perform with her group, was during the celebration of Human Rights Day at the Olive Convention Centre, in Durban. They kept the admiring audience at their feet through their energetic and inspiring songs and performance.

“On behalf of the provincial government, I extend our deepest condolences to her husband, her four children, seven grandchildren, and her fellow artists in Imithente. Her sudden departure has left an irreplaceable void in our province, our nation, and the music industry,” continued Premier Ntuli.

Premier Ntuli added that Manana-Mthalane and Imithente were true pioneers, breaking barriers in the male-dominated maskandi genre. Their bravery inspired countless women to pursue maskandi music, and they generously nurtured emerging female artists with wisdom and guidance.

In conclusion, the Premier said it was telling that Manana-Mthalane took her last breath on Freedom Day.

“It is poignant that she passed away on Freedom Day – a day she passionately celebrated through her music – a testament to her lifelong dedication to liberation and justice. Beyond music, she was a fierce advocate against gender-based violence, using her voice to condemn these atrocities whenever they arose.

Her legacy will endure through the songs she gifted to the nation. May her soul rest in eternal peace,” concluded Premier Ntuli.

ENDS

Issued by the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government
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